The New York Yankees’ emerged as the top landing spot for Yoshinobu Yamamoto even before the pitcher got posted on MLB. The Japanese ace won over general manager Brian Cashman’s heart when the latter scouted him in Japan earlier this year. However, MLB off-season is a world of uncertainties, and Bronx Bombers could learn it the hard way.
As the New York Yankees concluded their first off-season meeting with Yoshinobu Yamamoto, rumors suggested the entry of a late contender who could possibly win the sweepstakes. If so happens, the Bronx Bombers cannot sit ideal and sulk but must find alternatives. Here is one such rotational alternative the Yanks must explore if Yamamoto falls out of its reach.
Yankees Must Target Corbin Burnes In Splash Trade Deal!
The Los Angeles Dodgers is set to foil the New York Yankees’ dream pursuit of Yoshinobu Yamamoto. As per rumors, Shohei Ohtani’s contract flexibility will allow the Dodgers to pursue Yamamoto aggressively without any monetary concerns. Needless to say, the Dodgers’ late entry is a major setback for the Bombers. However, the market is still open for the club to seek alternatives. One such option is Milwaukee Brewer’s elite starter, Corbin Burnes. The starter won the CY Young Award in 2021 but witnessed regression in the following years. Yet they featured in All-Star games in 2022 and 2023 as well. In 2023, Burnes posted a 3.39 ERA across 32 starts. Moreover, he is eligible for arbitration with a projected salary of $15.1 million for the 2024 season.
Having said that, Burnes’ versatility and ability to consistently miss bats make him an ideal fit for the Yankees. The starter’s command over cutters had made him an elite pitcher in the league. Thus, his addition would complement the Yanks’ offensive firepower and address a key need in the rotation, potentially providing the missing piece to propel the team deep into the postseason in 2024. However, since the pitcher is under the Brewers’ control till 2025, the Bombers would have to seek him in a trade deal. While the excitement surrounding a potential Burnes trade is palpable, the negotiations are likely to be complex. The Brewers will undoubtedly seek a substantial return in any trade discussions. The challenge for the Yankees’ front office is to strike a balance between bolstering their roster for immediate success and maintaining a sustainable foundation for the future.
Yanks’ Yoshinobu Yamamoto Pursuit Falling Apart!
Meanwhile, the New York Yankees woke up to devastating news regarding the Yoshinobu Yamamoto sweepstakes. While the initial battle for the Japanese ace pitcher remained between the Yanks and the Mets, the LA Dodgers’ late entry messed up the situation. Dodgers, who acquired Shohei Ohtani in a $700 million deal, were expected to soften their stand.
However, inside details suggest that Ohtani has reportedly deferred $680 million till the end of his deal, thus allowing the Dodgers to pursue Yoshinobu Yamamoto aggressively. Having said that, the Yankees are also leaving no stone unturned. The front office met the ace on Monday and pitched the best offer, and the pitcher is expected to reach an agreement by the end of the week.
